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Rockland Community College Ranks #10 in Military Times 2023 Best For Vets Colleges

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2 years ago

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ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – Rockland Community College (RCC) is ranked as the #10 institution in the Northeast & Islands region in the prestigious Military Times’ 2023 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings, the largest and most comprehensive ranking of schools for military service members and veterans. The recognition reflects RCC’s commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities and support for military-connected students.

“We are thrilled to celebrate RCC’s recognition as the #10 institution in the Northeast & Islands region for supporting our student veterans,” said Dr. Lester Rápalo, RCC President. “This achievement reflects our commitment to serving and supporting our military students, as we continue our mission to transform the lives of our community members through education.”

Each year, a survey is distributed to colleges and universities nationwide, inquiring about their programs for veterans. The survey, along with public data from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs, are analyzed to create an official ranking. Colleges and universities were asked to participate in the survey, and the Military Times data team analyzed the responses, resulting in the creation of a highly regarded and impartial annual ranking of these institutions. This year, the list includes 325 schools, marking an increase of almost 5% compared to the previous year.

Rockland Community College attained the following positions in the 2023 rankings:

Overall Rank: 131
Rank in Northeast & Islands: 10
Rank in At least 2 but less than 4 years: 18
Rank in Primarily in-person: 113
Rank in General Education: 124

RCC’s Veterans Affairs department provides comprehensive support services to military-affiliated students, including assistance in identifying and applying for educational benefits, academic guidance, and enrollment certification to the Veterans Administration.

“I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact of our dedicated efforts in support of our veteran students firsthand,” said Jonathan Barnwell, the RCC Assistant Director of Judicial and Veteran Affairs. “This recognition reaffirms our progress in providing imperative support and resources to our military students.”

For a decade, Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges has aided and support to the military community by delivering trusted ranking and reporting on the top schools for veterans. The rankings have become a primary resource for schools to publicize their veteran programs, aiding veterans in making important decisions about their educational planning and how to use the education benefits acquired through their military service.

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Report Litterbugs in Rockland County Through Keep Rockland Beautiful Program

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1 day ago

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May 9, 2026

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Littering is illegal and can result in fines for those who commit the offense. Some litterbugs simply need to be informed and reminded that littering — whether deliberate or unintentional — can end with a personal commitment to stop.

The Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program encourages the public to report people who litter in an effort to help make Rockland County’s roadways cleaner. The program provides every individual with an opportunity to be an active participant in reducing litter.

If you see someone littering from their car, or trash blowing out from the back of a truck, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office will send the vehicle owner a warning letter based on your report to Keep Rockland Beautiful.

To report a litterbug, visit: Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program

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Government

Senate Approves Bill Expanding SPCA Fingerprinting Access

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3 days ago

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May 7, 2026

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A bipartisan bill sponsored by Pete Harckham aimed at helping SPCAs across New York more effectively investigate and prosecute animal cruelty cases has passed the State Senate unanimously.

The legislation, S.1664, would authorize SPCA officers statewide to access the same live scan fingerprinting system currently used by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. Supporters say the measure would streamline arrest processing, improve officer efficiency, and help prevent suspects from avoiding prosecution.

At present, many SPCA officers in New York must rely on outside law enforcement agencies to process fingerprints after making an arrest, often causing delays.

“SPCA officers must have the tools and resources they need to protect defenseless animals from cruelty and neglect and the public at large from serial abusers,” Harckham said in a statement. “With access to live scan fingerprinting, officers can quickly determine whether a suspect has a history of abuse or is wanted for other crimes.”

Harckham said the legislation was inspired by conversations with officers from the Putnam County SPCA, who reported that delays in fingerprint processing sometimes allowed suspects with outstanding warrants to remain free longer than necessary.

Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA praised the bill’s passage, noting the connection between animal cruelty and other violent crimes.

“Animal cruelty crimes are especially disturbing because they target the most vulnerable,” Ross said. “These offenses are often linked to other forms of violence, including child abuse and domestic violence.”

According to supporters of the legislation, animal cruelty cases have increased across New York since the COVID-19 pandemic. SPCAs cite rising living costs, behavioral health challenges, and the expiration of eviction protections as contributing factors.

Data from Humane Society International indicates that 85% of individuals arrested for animal cruelty have prior arrests, many involving felony offenses. The organization also reports significant overlap between domestic violence and animal abuse cases.

If enacted into law, the bill would expand investigative capabilities for SPCAs statewide and strengthen coordination between animal welfare agencies and law enforcement officials.

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